Following an international break in which Alli had not started either of England’s friendlies against Holland and Italy, and having been given a pep talk by manager Gareth Southgate, the 21-year-old cupped his ear in celebration of his first goal.

“I'm very, very pleased for Dele,” said Spurs manager Pochettino. “It's been a tough period for him, but I like his talent, his character. I'm so happy for him because he deserved it. In the end, he's a great talent, only 21 years old, and sometimes we lose the focus on that. He's only 21. Sometimes the expectation is too much.

“Dele is not one to be affected if he plays or does not play. He's so strong, with the personality. He's a fighter, very competitive. He won't be affected. Then we need to help him.

Alli delighted the travelling supporters with his two goals in Spurs's 3-1 win at Stamford BridgeCredit:
AP

“If he doesn't play with the national team, he needs to compete and give his best to try and win again the confidence of his manager in the national team. The only way to win the confidence and trust from your manager is doing what he did today - scoring the goals and playing like he did.”

Asked whether Alli’s celebration was a message to his doubters, Pochettino replied: “I didn't see the celebration. But, of course, he has a strong character and personality. But I didn't see it. He needs to show us nothing, because we trust and believe in him.”

Pochettino admitted he took extra satisfaction from the fact Tottenham had ended their Stamford Bridge hoodoo, but insisted he and his players will not yet take Champions League qualification for granted.

“I am so happy, we are so happy for our fans after 28 years,” said Pochettino. “Winning here at Stamford Bridge again is a massive thing again, for our fans and for Tottenham. But it's still only three points. I celebrate the same as I did in the past.

“There's still a long way to the end. We have to be focused and try to prepare the next game – so tough against Stoke – and focus and try to work hard. I think we have still not achieved anything and it will be difficult to be in the top four. We have to fight. Our mentality must be ready in every single game.”